Kent L. Tryon

Kent Tryon, a man of unwavering strength and boundless generosity, left this world peacefully on August 22, 2026, at his home, cradled by the love of his daughter’s hand as he concluded a brief but valiant battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on April 3, 1959, Kent was the cherished son of Marita K. Tryon and Lynnford W. Claypoole and was lovingly raised by his dear father, Kenneth E. Tryon, and stepmother, Janet K. Tryon. A beloved husband, Kent married the love of his life, Elaine M. Hopkins, on February 16, 1985. Together, they celebrated 41 years of marriage, creating a family filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Kent's legacy continues through his children, Brian (Kazia) Tryon and Danielle (Chris) Schwarz, and his adored grandchildren, Jace Simmons, Jordyn Tryon, Lily Schwarz, and Syras Tryon. Kent served his country with honor as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army from 1980 to 1994, proudly operating as a Pershing Missile Crewmember. His service was distinguished by numerous commendations, including the Army Service Ribbon, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medals, Overseas Service Ribbon, NCO Professional Development Ribbon, and Expert and Marksman Badges. A man of many passions, Kent was revered for his booming voice—reminiscent of Sam Elliot—and his profound love for the great outdoors. Whether working on his latest woodworking project or enjoying a quiet moment by a fire with a Saranac beer, Kent found peace in nature. However, nothing brought him greater joy than the freedom and tranquility he felt riding his motorcycle on open roads. Kent's heart of a lion was most evident in his dedication to friends and family, always ready to drop everything to lend a hand or offer the shirt off his back to a stranger in need. His commitment to community service was evident through his 15 years with the Patriot Guard Riders, where he served as a Ride Captain, his work with Wreaths Across America, 13 years of volunteering with Dryden Fire and Ambulance, and his past role on the Board of Twin Tiers Honor Flight. Kent’s memory will be honored at a service held on August 30, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Dryden Fire Department, located at 26 North Street, Dryden, NY 13053. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Wreaths Across America, in tribute to Kent's enduring spirit and dedication to honoring veterans. Kent is predeceased by his birth parents, father Kenneth E. Tryon, grandparents Howard and Marian Havington, and his brother Robert Scott Claypoole. He is survived by his beloved wife Elaine, children, grandchildren, siblings Jen (Jim) Grady, William Claypoole, and Lynnford "Jason" Claypoole. Kent's presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy of kindness, bravery, and love will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.